Origami is an ancient Japanese art of paper folding. With just a piece of paper and some folding techniques, you can create various shapes and designs. Among those designs, the origami samurai hat is one of the most popular.
In this article, you will learn how to make an origami samurai hat step by step. You will also discover the history and symbolism behind this ancient Japanese headgear.
What is an Origami Samurai Hat?
The origami samurai hat is a traditional Japanese hat worn by samurai warriors during the feudal era. It is made of a rectangular piece of paper, folded and shaped to resemble a helmet with a wide brim and a pointed top.
The samurai hat is not only a symbol of power and authority, but it also served a functional purpose. Its wide brim protected the samurai’s face and neck from the sun and rain, while the pointed top allowed air to circulate and keep the head cool.
Materials Needed to Make an Origami Samurai Hat
Making an origami samurai hat is easy, and all you need are a few materials:
| Materials | Description |
|---|---|
| Origami paper | A square piece of paper preferably 15cm x 15cm |
| Ruler | To measure and make folding creases |
| Scissors | To trim the paper if needed |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make an Origami Samurai Hat
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make an origami samurai hat:
- Start with a square piece of origami paper. If you don’t have origami paper, you can use any square paper.
- Fold the paper in half diagonally to make a triangle. Crease the fold well and unfold.
- Fold the paper in half again diagonally to make a smaller triangle. Crease the fold well and unfold.
- With the paper still folded in half, bring the top corner down to the bottom corner. Crease the fold well and unfold.
- Next, fold the paper in half horizontally to make a rectangle. Crease the fold well and unfold.
- Bring the left and right corners of the paper towards the center, following the diagonal creases made previously. Crease the folds well.
- Flip the paper over and repeat step 6 on the other side.
- With the paper still flipped over, fold the top layer of the right corner to the center crease. Crease the fold well and repeat on the left side.
- Flip the paper over and repeat step 8 on the other side.
- With the paper still flipped over, fold the top layer of the right corner to the center crease, but this time, tuck the corner under the layer of paper behind it. Crease the fold well and repeat on the left side.
- Flip the paper over and repeat step 10 on the other side.
- With the paper still flipped over, fold the top layer of the right corner diagonally towards the center crease. Crease the fold well and repeat on the left side.
- Flip the paper over and repeat step 12 on the other side.
- With the paper still flipped over, fold the bottom layer of the right corner diagonally towards the center crease. Crease the fold well and repeat on the left side.
- Flip the paper over and repeat step 14 on the other side.
- With the paper still flipped over, fold the top layer of the right corner diagonally towards the center crease again. Crease the fold well and repeat on the left side.
- Flip the paper over and repeat step 16 on the other side.
- With the paper still flipped over, fold the bottom layer of the right corner diagonally towards the center crease again. Crease the fold well and repeat on the left side.
- Flip the paper over and repeat step 18 on the other side.
- You should now have a samurai hat with a pointed top and a wide brim. Adjust the folds and creases as needed.
FAQ about Origami Samurai Hat
Q: What size of paper should I use to make an origami samurai hat?
A: It is recommended to use a square piece of paper, preferably 15cm x 15cm. However, you can use any square paper.
Q: Is it difficult to make an origami samurai hat?
A: No, it is not difficult. With a little practice and patience, you can easily make an origami samurai hat.
Q: Can I use a different color or patterned paper to make an origami samurai hat?
A: Yes, you can use any color or patterned paper to make an origami samurai hat. It will add a unique touch to your creation.
Q: What is the history behind the origami samurai hat?
A: The samurai hat, also known as a jingasa or kanmuri, was worn by samurai warriors during the feudal era. It was a symbol of power and authority and also served a functional purpose of protecting the samurai from the sun and rain.
Q: What is the symbolism behind the origami samurai hat?
A: The origami samurai hat symbolizes strength, power, and honor. It is also a nod to Japan’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Q: What can I do with an origami samurai hat?
A: You can use an origami samurai hat as a decoration, a prop for a play or costume, or even wear it as a fun and unique accessory.
A: Yes, there are other origami designs related to samurai, such as origami swords, helmets, and armor.
Conclusion
The origami samurai hat is a beautiful and fascinating creation that represents Japan’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. With our step-by-step guide, you can easily make an origami samurai hat and add it to your collection of paper crafts. So why not try it out today and see what kind of samurai hat you can create?
Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you again in our future articles.